The Counter Narcotics Division of the National Customs Agency of Bulgaria and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration are organizing the traditional Red Ribbons Day initiative, the press centre of the Customs Agency said on Thursday.
The event aims to raise awareness among students about the dangers and harm of drug use, and to present constructive and healthy alternatives for socialization, organizers said.
U.S. Ambassador Kenneth Merten said that there are about 600,000 drug-related deaths each year, pointing out that the figure represents roughly half of Sofia’s entire population.
According to him, this is not just statistics, but a number of families who have been affected, and now bear the pain of losing loved ones to drugs. He described Red Ribbons Day as the largest prevention event, with millions of people participating.
"The goal is to make lives safer. Fighting drugs takes courage. The important thing is to safeguard the future of our country," he said.
The programme includes a discussion, demonstrations by customs officers and customs dogs. The event will conclude with a flash mob by children.
In August, the Interior Ministry and the Prosecutor's Office established a specialised inter-agency unit to assist in the investigation of pre-trial proceedings, the opening of files, and the collection and analysis of information on organised criminal groups and persons involved in the production, possession and distribution of drugs, human trafficking and illegal migration.
/MT/
news.modal.image.text
news.modal.download.text
news.modal.text
